Emotional finish for Comrades novice who nearly didn’t run race (opens original article in a new tab)

A first-time Comrades Marathon runner overcame severe injuries from a car crash to finish the race just before the cut-off, while the event boosted local economy and tourism.

• First-time Comrades Marathon runner Sthembiso Mkhize finished the race 24 minutes before the 12-hour cut-off after recovering from a severe car crash in March.
• Mkhize suffered injuries including lacerations, back injuries, and internal trauma, requiring hospitalization and a month of recovery before he could train again.
• The 99th Comrades Marathon generated significant economic and tourism benefits for eThekwini, with 21,600 participants and 65,000 spectators attending the event.